Barbour RIFs nine employees

The Barbour County Board of Education voted this week to reduce the school system’s work force and terminate nine employees for lack of need, funding and/or reconfiguration of positions. The terminations will be effective June 30.

“There were no hearings regarding reduction in forces and I think that is a credit to the way we go out and meet face-to-face with those who will be affected by the move,” Dr. Joseph Super, superintendent of Barbour County Schools, said.

“I have to credit the board of education as we do lots of prep work and help keep those who will be affected in the loop of potential jobs and help them know of jobs that will be open so they can bid on them,” he said.

“These are peoples’ lives and jobs,” Super said. “We try to work with our employees and let them know what is going on. We work more one-on-one and are proactive to help these folks find employment. Those on the reduction in work force list are put on a preferential recall list. Some of these folks have already been moved into other positions within our school system.”

Super said the reduction is difficult for individuals but he feels the people understand the economics of the system.

Other actions taken by the Barbour BOE at Monday’s meeting included:

– Voting to accept the retirement of Richard Cleavenger as mathematics instructor at Philip Barbour High School effective June 30.

– Voting to employ Cleavenger as a substitute teacher for 2013-2014.

– Voting to accept the resignation of Barbara Williams as a substitute aide effective Jan. 11.

Super also invited board members and residents to attend the Barbour County Math Field Day award ceremony at 6:45 p.m. at the Philip Barbour High School auditorium Feb. 5. The snow date for the event is Feb. 7.